Bedside Sleeper Cot
A bedside sleeper cot (also known as a bassinet) is attached to the side of your bed to ensure that your baby is close enough to be able to enjoy night feeding but safe within their own sleeping area. Our moms love that they are easy to reach and that they can also rotate or drop the sides to make them more accessible.
Safety
A bedside sleeper cot permits babies to be close to parents' beds for nighttime feeding, comforting and monitoring without exposing them to the dangers associated with sharing beds (which can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cots are designed to adhere to NHS guidelines for co-sleeping and are endorsed by childcare experts such as director of the Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.
They also provide immediate nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, promoting healthy attachment that can help with developmental milestones. It is essential that parents search for bassinets that are simple to clean and safe to use. ensure they have been tested and approved by a trusted agency such as JPMA.
In 2023, ASTM updated their version of the voluntary standard F2906 for bedside sleepers due to the newer models that convert from a bassinet for babies to a bedside sleeper by lowering a side rail next to a adult bed. baby bedside crib allows a portion of the lower part to be elevated above the mattress and presents an increased risk of getting trapped. The CPSC's direct final rule incorporates by reference this 2023 revision to the existing mandatory standard set under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for durable infant or toddler products that have been used for longer than 180 days and is expected to reduce the chance of injuries.
Keep in mind that a bedside or bassinet is not recommended to be used with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could be a suffocation hazard as babies are unable to lift their heads high enough to free them from soft objects. A reclining position can cause the head tip to tilt forward, which can block their airway. Always place your child on their back when using a crib, bassinet or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.
Convenience
It is important to keep your baby close during the night. This creates a bond between the parents and their infants. Bedside sleeper bassets attach securely to the sides of your mattress, allowing you to reach your baby easily to change diapers, feeds and comforting in the middle of the night. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent and easy to see through, allowing you to monitor your child without stepping up from bed.
It is crucial that the bassinet you select is deemed safe for babies by an independent testing agency and that it meets all specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should choose a bassinet with a wide base and a strong attachment system. A breathable mattress should also be considered.
Look for a model with a manual rocking function that's gentle on your baby and can aid in settling them down. Some models also have a tilt option, which can be helpful for newborns with reflux or colic but should only be used with the advice of your GP or health visitor.
Some bassinets come with mattresses and some require you to purchase a mattress separately. Buy a mattress designed to be a perfect fit for the sleeper that is placed on the bedside. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and may be a risk for SIDS. You'll also need to purchase a breathable fitted sheet and muslin blanket for your baby. Check the fabric lining and foam mattress can be machine washed to make it easier to clean. A storage shelf or a basket is a convenient feature for storing necessities such as nappies, clothing and muslins. There are models that have wheels that enable it to be moved around the house.
Breastfeeding Support
If you decide to breastfeed, a bedside sleeper cot can help you to make the most of your night-time feedings. Attached to your bed it allows you to reach over to feed your baby whenever he wakes up. The side of the cot can be lowered to create a shallow bed for sleeping side-by-side. Certain models can also tilt to support reflux.
The curved sides of the cot means that it's easy to spot your baby and they won't roll out of the side when you lift them up for feeding. Some cots for bedside sleepers feature an automatic rocking function that can help calm your baby and encourage them to fall asleep faster after a meal.
When it comes to keeping your baby clean, a cozy bedding and a removable material that can be machine-washed are helpful. Some models feature gentle rocking and vibration functions that can help soothe your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.
It is convenient for nursing mothers to share the bed with their infants. This lets them develop bonds of friendship during their sleep. Research has shown that infants who breastfeed and share a sleep space have higher outcomes than infants who are fed through bottles. It is crucial to be aware of the dangers and practices that come with sharing an infant's bed and to choose an appropriate mattress for your baby.
Some in-bed sleeping bags have soft edges, which could keep your baby in the bag. You also need to be cautious not to allow the sleeper in bed slide backwards, creating an opening that your child may crawl into or roll over.
If you are worried about the security of a sleeper in bed, consider attending an LLL meeting or talking with an experienced Sleep Leader to know more about the sleeping habits of breastfeeding mothers and their babies. They can provide guidance on how to create a safe sleep environment for your baby and help understand the risks of SIDS. They can also educate you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protective factors as breastfeeding.